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Fishtown

Fishtown Historic District

Written by: Theresa Meeker Pickett

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the area in Culpeper, Virginia, known as Fishtown, emerged as a bustling hub of activity, located to the south of the railroad depot in the area of Waters Place and East Culpeper Street. This district earned its name from the vibrant fish markets and fish fries that became central to the community’s social and economic life. The aroma of freshly fried fish filled the streets, drawing residents and visitors to lively communal gatherings.

Fishtown was more than just a marketplace; it was a cultural cornerstone for many African American residents. The area was a collection of single family homes, a multi-family tenement building, and a few businesses, such as welding and machine shops.  Today, though the original structures of Fishtown no longer stand, walking through this former enclave—once home to Black residents and small businesses—one can still feel the vibe of a Friday night fish fry, accompanied by the sound of a street musician picking the strings of a guitar.

The 200 Block of East Davis Street

A short walk from both The Wharf and Fishtown, the 200 block of East Davis Street flourished as a center of Black-owned businesses and social life. It was home to numerous Black-owned or operated businesses and social establishments, reflecting a thriving and self-sustaining commercial district during the decades of segregation and Jim Crow policies. These businesses not only provided goods and services but also fostered a sense of pride and economic independence among their proprietors and patrons.

There were restaurants, general stores, barber shops, a dance hall, an insurance company, a doctor’s office and a funeral home among many others. A few white-owned buildings also stood in the area, and it was not uncommon for white patrons to seek out Black-owned businesses for their services.

Many of the earlier buildings, especially from the 20th century, remain and host thriving businesses. The legacy of the block’s long and dynamic history is commemorated through public art and historical markers. “The Trailblazers” mural in downtown Culpeper pays tribute to the trailblazing African American figures and the vibrant life that once characterized Fishtown, the Wharf, and the 200 Block of East Davis Street. An ongoing plaque and marker project aims to identify the buildings that once housed these businesses. QR codes on the plaques offer a wealth of information about the businesses and their owners. Take a self-guided walking tour and experience firsthand the rich history that shaped this community.

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